For several years, the Karaganda Industrial University has been
implementing the “Silver University” project (the University of the Third Age),
where representatives of the older generation can бесплатно acquire актуальные skills — from digital and financial literacy to the
principles of a healthy lifestyle.
This project is part of an international movement aimed at helping
elderly people adapt to modern conditions, continue learning, develop, and
maintain an active life position. At KARIU, the “Silver University” opens twice
a year, and the ближайший enrollment of participants will end on April 6.
Director of the Department of Academic Policy, Elena Kharchenko, notes
that the project was created within the framework of the idea of lifelong
learning. According to her, the university strives to develop not only its
graduates but also people of older age. There are no age restrictions: people
aged 45 to 80 take part in the training. In addition, the “Silver University”
at KARIU is constantly developing and does not stand still — the program is
expanding, and new актуальные направления are being introduced in response to participants’
needs. For example, this year a new направление — the “Parents Academy” — has been launched.
— This refers to the “Bridge of Generations” program, which was специально designed to help representatives of the older
generation better understand modern approaches to upbringing and build
harmonious relationships with their children and grandchildren. Within a month,
participants study the basics of modern parenting, learn to respect a child’s
personal boundaries and emotions, master the role of grandparents without
excessive care, and also analyze family conflicts and ways to resolve them
constructively, — explains Elena Kharchenko. — Special attention is paid to
practice: participants take part in the analysis of real situations and
role-playing games. As Kharchenko emphasized, the psychological service plays
an important role in the program — specialists conduct trainings, help identify
family attitudes, and provide individual consultations.
Overall, the project offers participants many opportunities. Firstly, it
is gaining new knowledge and developing skills: participants broaden their
horizons, find new hobbies, and train memory and thinking. Secondly, it is live
communication and socialization — new acquaintances and exchange of experience.
Thirdly, participants have the opportunity to attend yoga and chess classes,
which helps maintain physical activity and well-being. In addition, training
helps them feel more energetic and confident in a new environment.
— Today, the ability to use digital technologies has become a necessity:
more and more public and financial services are moving online, and it is almost
impossible to manage without a computer or smartphone, — continues Elena
Kharchenko. — At the same time, it is elderly people who most often become
victims of internet fraud. Even those who confidently use a computer do not
always know how to protect themselves online. The number of internet crimes is
growing, and older people suffer from them most often. During the classes,
participants are clearly and подробно explained how to protect themselves from fraudsters
and safely use digital services.
After completing the course, participants receive certificates
confirming their knowledge and skills, and some even find jobs thanks to the
experience they gained. In this regard, the number of participants in the
“Silver University” is growing every year. Last year, several dozen city
residents became graduates of the project. Some admitted that they enroll in
the university for the second or even third time, which is allowed.
Free classes will be held in the building of the Karaganda Industrial
University at 30 Republic Avenue, Temirtau. You can register for free
courses by calling 91-68-95 and 8 (747) 943-28-37.
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